Future First Responds To Elitist Britain Report

‘The news that ‘Britain’s most influential people are over five times more likely to have been to a fee-paying school than the general population’ highlights the inequality at the heart of our society. Providing access to diverse and relatable role models for state educated students today will help narrow this gap in future generations.

Research shows that nearly half of pupils on free school meals don’t know anyone in a job they would like to do. We know this affects young people’s perception of their own ability, their expectations of future success, and the extent to which they value their school work.

Meeting former students helps to change this, boosting young people’s confidence and motivation, and helping to transform their life chances. Harnessing the wealth of talent and experience of volunteer alumni who return to their former schools as relatable role models shows young people that ‘someone like me’ can progress onto interesting, diverse and fulfilling futures.

Access to opportunities and social capital has a key part to play in driving up social mobility and we support the mission of The Sutton Trust and the Social Mobility Commission to ensure the talents of young people from all backgrounds are fully recognised in the future.